Working together: IUCN signs MOU with Secretariat of the Pacific Community

18 June 2013 | News story

The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) and IUCN, the International Union for Conservation of Nature signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) today to work together to more efficiently address issues relating to conservation and development in the Pacific region.

The four-year MOU recognises the special expertise that the two international organisations possess in different sectors related to biodiversity conservation, such as fisheries and marine conservation, forestry, energy, food security, water and climate change.

By joining their competencies, SPC and IUCN will enable a more holistic and sustainable approach to economic and social development in the region.

“SPC welcomes the opportunity for a meaningful partnership with IUCN to help the countries of the Pacific region develop and implement a green growth strategy in the blue continent,” said SPC Director-General Dr Jimmie Rodgers.

Mr Taholo Kami, IUCN Oceania Regional Director, said “SPC is the key regional organization that can assist Pacific Island countries in a shift from where we are today towards the green / blue economies that will secure a sustainable future – IUCN looks forward to be part of this journey with SPC.”

The joint work by SPC and IUCN aims to support each Pacific Island member to achieve the national and regional outcomes defined as priorities by Pacific leaders.